Madeira is a picturesque Portuguese island, surrounded by greenery and striking with its natural beauties. It is located in the Atlantic Ocean, 1,000 kilometers southwest of Portugal. More than 500 kilometers from the island to the nearest mainland. Madeira is famous for its wonderful mild climate due to the washing of the island by the warm Gulf Stream.
Tourism is one of the most important areas of this region; people come here for adventures, recreation, sports and new experiences. Sunny Island is ready to offer each guest a wide range of tourist services.
Today we show the 10 main attractions of the beautiful and remote island of Madeira:
1
Funchal
The capital of Madeira is recognized as one of the most comfortable and safe cities to live in Portugal. The main attraction of the capital is the Sao Tiago fortress, which was built 500 years ago in order to protect against pirate attacks. Now that the pirates no longer threaten the walls of the cities, an art museum has been opened in the fortress building.
In the photo: Sao Tiago Fortress
In Funchal is the oldest temple on the island - the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary. Experienced tourists highly recommend including a wine museum, a casino and a market in the old part of the city as part of their walk program.
Pictured: Cathedral of Our Lady of Funchal
2
National reserve
Madeira's nature is unique, and in order to preserve such beauty, a national reserve was created on the island in 1982. Its territory occupies 60% of the island’s area, the park is divided into thematic zones, some of them are strictly protected, while others have hotels and tourism is allowed.
Judging by the reviews of tourists, Madeira National Park is one of the most beautiful and fabulous places in the world. Beautiful nature, clean air and a mild climate positively affect the nervous system of tourists, relaxing and blowing consciousness into a fairy tale. Here you can walk, enjoy the nature of the park, well-groomed alleys, beautiful flower beds with exotic flowers, as well as explore the island's fauna.
3
Porto Moniz
It is a small town in the northwestern part of the island. Its main highlight is the natural volcanic pools, which are very popular with both locals and guests of the island. Also in Porto Moniz it is worth visiting the old port, which now has an aquarium with sea fish, and a center of modern science.
In the photo: the entrance to the aquarium
4
Cape Girao
The cliff of Cabo Girao is the highest cliff in Europe. An observation deck at the top of the cliff is very popular among tourists, it offers incredible views of the ocean and the capital of the island, and in clear weather you can even see whales swimming in the ocean. The very way to Cape Girao by cable car in a glass booth is an unforgettable adventure.
In the photo: the observation deck on top of Cabo Girao
5
Madeira Airport
Flying to Madeira is an adventure, especially landing at the airport, which is considered one of the most extreme in the world. The runway at this airport is not a stretch of asphalt, but a 3 km long water bridge. Moreover, when landing, the bridge cannot be seen from afar, first the pilot has to aim the course at the mountains, and then abruptly enter the landing strip. The sight is not for the faint of heart.
6
Pico arieiro
Pico do Arieiro is the most visited mountain in Madeira, its height is more than 1800 meters. In sunny weather, from the top of the mountain, a view of the forests, valleys and coast opens, and in foggy weather - a view of the clouds floating above the rocks.
7
Faha dos Padres
In the south of Madeira there is a small village, which can only be reached by cable car. Judging by the photo, the road here is also a special adventure. The first settlers of Faha dos Padres were monks who quickly mastered the land and engaged in winemaking.
Vineyards on the hillsides are still grown here, in addition to this, rare vegetables and fruits grow in this part of the island that are not found in other parts of Madeira.
There are no attractions as such in this village, people come here for an atmosphere of freedom and proximity to nature.
8
Paul do mar
Travelers who are keen on surfing, having flown to Madeira, first of all go to this fishing village. Here the highest waves on the island, so in 2001, Paul do Mar was honored to host the world championship in surfing.
In summer, it is very crowded, surfboards are everywhere on the beach. And in the off-season, the village becomes empty, you can stroll along the beach without fuss, try freshly caught seafood at an attractive price and enjoy beautiful views from the top of the hills.
9
Ponta do Sol
This is the sunniest resort in a radius of 500 kilometers, it is always a little warmer here than in the rest of the island. The beaches at the resort are rocky, but this does not stop lovers of a relaxing beach holiday from coming here. By the way, about- the most beautiful beaches in the world, most-beauty.ru has interesting material for you.
This place is also very interesting for divers, they are attracted to a ship that sank many years ago at the bottom of the ocean. Excursions to the ship are arranged by all local diving schools.
10
Santana
This is probably the most picturesque place in Madeira, the feature of this small town is triangular houses made of stone and straw. For those who want to get acquainted with the traditions and history of Madeira, a theme park is open here.
Every year a folklore festival takes place in which collectives from different parts of Portugal take part.
Santana has one of the highest peaks of the island - Pico Ruivu, which is famous for its steep panoramic views.
Conclusion
It's time to complete our virtual journey through the distant and beautiful island of Madeira. We wish you to visit this paradise of the Atlantic and share your impressions with us later. We hope that we have managed to stir up interest in this place in your heart.